The Ultimate Guide to Indian Wells
Why Visit Indian Wells?
Tucked peacefully between Palm Springs and La Quinta in the heart of Southern California’s Coachella Valley, Indian Wells is a destination that perfectly blends refined luxury with the breathtaking beauty of the desert. Whether you're seeking a rejuvenating wellness escape, an active getaway filled with tennis and golf, or simply a serene base to explore the Palm Springs area, Indian Wells offers something for every traveler.
This small city may span just a few square miles, but don’t let its size fool you—Indian Wells is world-famous for its elegance, warmth, and hospitality. Known for its palm-lined boulevards, manicured resorts, and dramatic views of the Santa Rosa Mountains, it’s a haven for both relaxation and recreation. The vibe is elevated but never stuffy—think poolside cabanas, sun-kissed fairways, open-air dining, and postcard-perfect desert sunsets.
Perhaps most famously, Indian Wells is home to the BNP Paribas Open, one of the most prestigious tennis tournaments in the world outside of the Grand Slams. Each March, the Indian Wells Tennis Garden transforms into a global stage, attracting tennis icons and fans from every corner of the globe. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a first-time spectator, the energy during tournament time is absolutely electric—and an experience that belongs on every sports enthusiast’s bucket list.
Not into tennis? You’re still in the right place. Indian Wells is a golfer’s dream with world-renowned courses like the Indian Wells Golf Resort, offering lush fairways, challenging layouts, and awe-inspiring mountain backdrops. Prefer something slower paced? Many of the area’s luxury resorts feature full-service spas, meditation gardens, and poolside bars, making it easy to unwind in style. With year-round sunshine, even your quiet moments feel extraordinary.
Indian Wells also benefits from its prime location in the Palm Springs area, giving visitors easy access to a wide array of day trips and attractions. Whether you're heading into downtown Palm Springs for mid-century modern architecture and vintage shopping, or out to Joshua Tree National Park for a desert hike, Indian Wells makes an ideal home base for exploring all the Coachella Valley has to offer.
From elegant resorts and five-star dining to world-class tennis and relaxing spa days, visiting Indian Wells offers a curated desert experience—where every detail feels thoughtful, every view is stunning, and every moment invites you to slow down and savor the sunshine.
This guide covers everything you need to know before you go—from what to pack and where to stay, to how to experience the city like a local. Let’s dive in.
When to Visit Indian Wells
Wondering about the best time to visit Indian Wells? You’re in luck—this Southern California gem enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine each year, making it a year-round destination for travelers seeking blue skies, scenic beauty, and a warm desert breeze. But depending on what you’re looking to do—from watching world-class tennis to scoring great resort deals—each season brings its own vibe and value.
☀️ Winter (December – February): Peak Season & Desert Perfection
Winter
This is the season when Indian Wells truly shines. With daytime highs averaging in the low 70s and crisp, clear nights, winter is peak travel season in the Coachella Valley. Visitors from colder climates flock here to enjoy sun-soaked pool days, early tee times, and luxurious outdoor dining without breaking a sweat.
It’s also a magical time for wellness seekers. Many resorts and spas offer seasonal packages, yoga retreats, and desert-inspired treatments that align perfectly with the cooler, refreshing weather.
Insider Tip: Book early—hotels and vacation rentals fill quickly during the winter months, especially around holidays and long weekends.
Spring (March – May): Events, Energy & Sunshine
Spring
Spring is festival season, and Indian Wells is at the heart of it all. In March, the city takes center stage as the BNP Paribas Open draws the world’s top tennis talent and thousands of fans to the Indian Wells Tennis Garden. The weather is ideal—sunny and dry with temperatures in the 70s and 80s—and the atmosphere is electric.
Beyond tennis, the surrounding valley lights up with cultural and music festivals, desert art shows, and outdoor markets. Wildflowers bloom in the nearby mountains, and patio dining becomes a lifestyle.
Crowd Watch: Spring is lively and social—great for event-goers, but if you’re looking for solitude, this may not be the quietest time to visit.
Summer (June – August): Sizzling Deals & Tranquility
Summer
Let’s be honest: Indian Wells summers are hot. Daytime temperatures regularly hit triple digits—but that also means it’s the perfect time to score incredible deals on luxury resorts, spas, and golf packages.
Most properties are well-equipped for the heat, with misting systems, shaded cabanas, and chilled pools. Mornings and evenings offer cooler windows for activities like sunrise hikes or sunset cocktails. If you're someone who thrives in warm weather (or loves a deal), this is your moment.
Insider Tip: Hydrate often, wear SPF, and plan your outdoor adventures early in the day or after dusk.
Fall (September – November): The Desert Awakens
Fall
As the heat fades and cooler evenings return, fall becomes a hidden gem season in Indian Wells. The crowds thin out, the golf courses green up, and the event calendar begins to stir again.
Temperatures in the 80s make it perfect for golfing, hiking, or lounging poolside without the summer sizzle. October and November, in particular, offer some of the most comfortable weather of the year—ideal for couples' getaways or relaxed weekend escapes.
Best of Both Worlds: Fall strikes a balance between the crowds of spring and the heat of summer, often with better room rates than winter.
Timing Your Trip Just Right
So what’s the best time to visit Indian Wells? That depends on your style.
- Want the full scene with big events and buzzing energy? Spring is your season.
- Looking for quiet relaxation and top-tier resort deals? Try summer or fall.
- Craving perfect weather and luxurious comfort? Winter delivers.
No matter when you go, Indian Wells welcomes you with sunshine, style, and signature desert calm.
Getting to Indian Wells
Traveling to Indian Wells is easier than ever, thanks to its prime location in the heart of the Coachella Valley and easy access to multiple transportation options. Whether you’re flying in from across the country or road-tripping in from Southern California, you’ll find Indian Wells conveniently connected—yet just far enough removed to feel like a true escape.
No matter how you arrive, Indian Wells is always worth the journey. With its welcoming resorts, iconic events, and signature desert beauty, your next getaway is just a short flight—or scenic drive—away.
Here's a visual map showing the journey from Palm Springs (PSP) to Indian Wells—it highlights the route and gives a real-world view of proximity and road layout.
Getting to Indian Wells
The map to the left outlines the straightforward drive from Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) east into the Coachella Valley toward Indian Wells. It’s a quick and scenic route through the desert landscape, making Indian Wells an easily accessible yet distinct destination.
Quick Transport Options and Considerations
Where to Stay in Indian Wells
When it comes to accommodations, Indian Wells is synonymous with luxury—but also offers a surprisingly wide range of options to fit different travel styles. Whether you're planning a romantic escape, a family vacation, a golf weekend, or attending the world-renowned BNP Paribas Open, the city’s resort experience blends desert tranquility with exceptional hospitality. Plus, thanks to Indian Wells' compact size, nearly every hotel is just minutes from tennis, golf, shopping, and dining—meaning more time to relax, and less time in transit.
Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas
Tucked into the desert floor just minutes from the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, the Grand Hyatt Indian Wells Resort & Villas is where casual California elegance meets full-scale resort luxury. With a backdrop of the Santa Rosa Mountains and an atmosphere that blends spa serenity, golf-side sophistication, and family fun, it’s one of the most beloved places to stay in the Greater Palm Springs area.
Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa
Stylish, modern, and effortlessly chic, the Renaissance Esmeralda Resort & Spa is a standout among Indian Wells' luxury resorts. Ideally located just a short walk from the Indian Wells Tennis Garden, this Marriott Bonvoy property offers a vibrant mix of upscale design, relaxed desert vibes, and thoughtful touches that make every stay feel like a personal escape.
Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa
Tropical sophistication meets desert luxury at the Tommy Bahama Miramonte Resort & Spa, a newly transformed oasis that captures the easygoing elegance of both brands. Nestled at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains, this resort is Indian Wells’ freshest take on laid-back resort living—with a polished island twist.
Sands Hotel & Spa
For travelers who crave style, intimacy, and Instagram-worthy design, the Sands Hotel & Spa is the ultimate hidden gem in Indian Wells. This adults-only boutique resort is a visual masterpiece—a fusion of Moroccan inspiration and mid-century glamour—curated by renowned designer Martyn Lawrence Bullard. From its blush-pink exterior to its gold-accented cocktail bar, every inch of the Sands makes a statement.
Where to Eat in Indian Wells
Indian Wells may be a small city, but it delivers big on flavor. From upscale resort dining to hidden local gems, this desert oasis offers something for every palate. Savor Mediterranean flair at The Pink Cabana, indulge in modern Latin cuisine at Tía Carmen, or enjoy sushi royalty at Nobu Indian Wells inside the Tennis Garden. For casual bites, Eureka! serves up craft burgers and beer flights, while Don Diego’s brings decades of authentic Mexican flavor. Whether you’re brunching in a garden courtyard, sipping cocktails under the stars, or grabbing a shawarma wrap to go, Indian Wells offers an unexpectedly diverse dining scene worth exploring.
The Pink Cabana
Best for: Brunch dates, girls’ weekends, stylish foodies
Located inside the Sands Hotel & Spa, this chic Mediterranean spot offers shakshuka, halloumi fries, and lemon ricotta pancakes in a tennis-club-meets-Marrakech vibe.
Kestrel
Best for: Sunset dinners, golf weekends, special occasions
Formerly Vue Grille & Bar, Kestrel overlooks the Indian Wells Golf Resort and serves up New American dishes like dry-aged ribeye and truffle fries with breathtaking mountain views.
Tommy Bahama Restaurant
Best for: Laid-back luxury, tropical cocktails, date nights
Island-inspired dishes like coconut shrimp and ahi tacos meet relaxing resort vibes at the Miramonte Resort. Think fire pits, string lights, and palm trees.
CAVA at Renaissance
Best for: Romantic dinners, refined California cuisine
Located at Renaissance Esmeralda, CAVA crafts seasonal, upscale California cuisine. Great for a chef’s tasting menu or wine-paired evening under the stars.
Top Things to Do in Indian Wells
Don’t let its size fool you—Indian Wells is packed with experiences that range from world-class sporting events to serene desert escapes. Whether you're in town for a quick weekend or an extended stay, this luxurious corner of the Coachella Valley delivers big on adventure, relaxation, and Instagram-worthy moments. From championship-level tennis to scenic hikes and spa days, here are the top things to do in Indian Wells, California.
Golf in Indian Wells
Golfers from around the world consider Indian Wells a must-visit destination thanks to its dramatic desert scenery, ideal winter weather, and world-class public and resort courses. Whether you're looking for championship-level challenges or a relaxing round framed by palm trees and mountain views, the Coachella Valley — and especially Indian Wells — delivers one of the best golf experiences in California.
When to Golf in Indian Wells
The best time to golf here is late fall through early spring, when temps range from the mid-60s to 80s — perfect for long days on the course. Summer deals can be steep, but expect high heat and early morning tee times. Booking ahead is highly recommended during the BNP Paribas Open or peak spring break weeks.
Not a Golfer?
Indian Wells Golf Resort offers a surprising amount of fun even if you don’t golf. Whether you’re tagging along with someone who is golfing or just want to soak up the desert vibes, here’s what you can do at the resort as a non-golfer:
Spa & Wellness in Indian Wells: Where Desert Stillness Meets Total Rejuvenation
Between championship tennis matches, poolside lounging, and scenic hikes, Indian Wells offers another kind of high-performance experience: total body restoration. In this sun-soaked corner of the Coachella Valley, wellness is not a side note—it’s a way of life.
The city’s top resorts are also home to some of the most serene and well-appointed spas in the region, making Indian Wells a quiet epicenter of modern desert wellness. Whether you're in search of a full spa day or just want to sneak away for a hydrating facial, these sanctuaries offer the perfect recharge.
Beyond the Spa: Wellness Across Indian Wells
Indian Wells goes beyond the treatment room when it comes to wellness. Many resorts offer full-body fitness programs, yoga classes, guided hikes, and meditation spaces built into their programming.
Available across multiple properties:
- Morning yoga sessions on the lawn or rooftop
- Fitness centers with Peloton bikes, resistance training, and personal trainers
- Wellness retreats and packages (check seasonal resort calendars)
Hydration therapy, IV drips, and nutrition consults available on request
Who It's For
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- Couples looking for a romantic reset
- Tennis and golf travelers who want post-performance recovery
- Wellness-focused travelers creating their own DIY desert retreat
- Locals seeking a day of self-care in a 5-star setting
- Couples looking for a romantic reset
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Planning Your Spa Day
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- Book 1–2 weeks ahead (longer for couples’ sessions or weekend travel)
- Ask about spa day passes — many include pool access, steam rooms, and private lounges
- Bring your swimsuit and flip flops for pre- or post-treatment lounging
- Gratuities often added at checkout (typically 20%)
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After exploring everything Indian Wells has to offer — from scenic golf courses and luxurious spa resorts to unforgettable dining and iconic events — one thing becomes clear: this desert destination punches far above its weight. Whether you’ve mapped out every tennis match and tee time or simply followed your curiosity through gardens, galleries, and golden-hour patios, Indian Wells leaves a lasting impression with its signature blend of elegance, warmth, and desert charm.
So if you’re ready to relax, recharge, and experience something truly special, consider this your invitation. Indian Wells is more than a place to visit — it’s a place to savor. Come for the sunshine, stay for the experiences, and leave with memories that make you want to come back season after season. Your oasis is waiting.
Discover the magic of Indian Wells—where world-class tennis, stunning resorts, championship golf, unforgettable dining, and serene desert beauty come together for the ultimate Indian Wells escape.